The Stair Guys Champion Equal Paternity Rights for Self-Employed Dads
Join us in fighting for fair parental support in the UK construction industry
As the founder of The Stair Guys and a father of two, I’ve recently joined a crucial campaign to address the glaring issue of paternity leave and pay for self-employed fathers in the UK. This campaign, led by The Dad Shift and supported by OnTheTools, aims to bring about significant changes in how our country supports new dads who run their own businesses.
Scott Jones Of The Stair Guys Takes The Campaign To Parliamentnt
The Personal Side of the Paternity Leave Gap
I’m Scott Jones, proud father to Finn and Theo. My business partner, Tom, is also a dedicated dad to Connor and Henry, as well as a step-dad to Alfie. As self-employed fathers, we’ve experienced firsthand the challenges of balancing our work commitments with our desire to be present for our families, especially during those crucial early days of our children’s lives.
The stark contrast between the support available to employed fathers and the complete lack of assistance for self-employed dads is not just disappointing – it’s fundamentally unfair. This disparity has motivated us to take action and lend our voices to this important cause.
The Current State of Paternity Leave in the UK
For self-employed fathers in the UK, the situation is dire. While employed dads receive statutory paternity leave and pay, self-employed fathers are left with no support when welcoming a new child. This forces many to make an impossible choice between bonding with their newborns and maintaining their livelihoods.
UK paternity pay ranks lowest in Europe (Source: The Dad Shift)
Key Facts:
- About 15% of the UK workforce is self-employed, a significant portion of our working population
- The number of self-employed fathers has been rising steadily over the past decade
- The UK’s statutory paternity leave is the worst in Europe, with only two weeks off paid at less than half the minimum wage
- Research consistently shows that fathers who take paternity leave are more likely to stay involved in childcare long-term, benefiting child development and family dynamics
This lack of support not only affects fathers but has far-reaching consequences for families and society as a whole. It perpetuates gender inequality by reinforcing traditional roles and making it harder for mothers to return to work. It also impacts children’s development, as early bonding with both parents is crucial for their emotional and cognitive growth.
The Campaign for Change
The Dad Shift, with support from organisations like OnTheTools, is pushing for comprehensive reform in paternity leave policies. Their campaign focuses on three key areas:
1. Substantial paternity leave
The campaign advocates for extended leave that gives dads enough time to support their partners and bond with their children. This is not just about a few days off work; it’s about creating a meaningful period for fathers to fully engage in the early stages of their child’s life.
2. Affordable paternity pay
One of the biggest barriers to fathers taking leave is financial constraint. The campaign aims to ensure that paternity pay is set at a rate that allows all fathers, regardless of their employment status, to take the leave they’re entitled to without facing financial hardship.
3. Equal leave for both parents
Recognising the vital role all parents play in a child’s early life, the campaign pushes for a system where both parents have equal opportunities to take leave. This approach not only supports fathers but also promotes gender equality in childcare and career progression.
We’re advocating for a system that values a father’s presence during those crucial early days, no matter how he earns his living. This isn’t just about fairness for fathers; it’s about creating a society that truly values family life and recognizes the importance of both parents in raising children.
The Wider Impact of Paternity Leave
The benefits of adequate paternity leave extend far beyond individual families. Research has shown that when fathers take paternity leave:
- Child development outcomes improve
- Mothers experience better physical and mental health
- Gender equality in the workplace is promoted
- Fathers report higher levels of job satisfaction and work-life balance
These positive outcomes have ripple effects throughout society, contributing to stronger families, more productive workplaces, and a more equitable distribution of care responsibilities.
Looking to the Future
The campaign is set to continue with lobbying efforts, public awareness initiatives, and collaboration with policymakers. We’re grateful for the support of individuals like Graeme Downie, a Member of Parliament and fellow University of Stirling alumnus, who recognises the importance of this issue.
By addressing this inequality, the UK can take a significant step towards supporting all families, regardless of employment status. At The Stair Guys, we’re committed to standing alongside The Dad Shift and OnTheTools in this vital movement, working to ensure that every father has the opportunity to be present for those irreplaceable early moments with their newborns.
It’s high time we modernise our approach to paternity leave and create a fairer system for all fathers in the UK. The future of family life and gender equality in our country may well depend on it.
Take Action Now
If you believe in fair paternity rights for self-employed fathers, we urge you to join us in this crucial fight. Your voice matters, and together, we can make a difference for fathers, families, and the future of our society.
Here’s how you can help:
- Sign The Dad Shift’s petition to demand change
- Share this blog post and the petition link on your social media channels
- Talk to your local MP about the importance of paternity leave for self-employed fathers
- If you’re a business owner, consider how you can support paternity leave within your own company
By taking these steps, you’re not just supporting fathers – you’re investing in stronger families, a more equitable society, and a brighter future for the next generation. Let’s work together to ensure that all fathers, regardless of their employment status, have the opportunity to be there for those precious early moments of their children’s lives.
At The Stair Guys, we’re committed to supporting our community and fighting for meaningful change in the construction industry.
